What we can learn from parents with disabilities | Marjorie Aunos | TEDxWesternU

Parenting is a tough landscape to navigate, and a newfound disability creates unique problems that require unique solutions. Dr. Marjorie Aunos is a psychologist conducting research on parenting with disabilities. Drawing from that research and from personal experience, Dr. Aunos explains why disabled parents are often the best source of parenting advice - because they have been forced to find solutions to fit complex needs quickly and effectively their whole lives.

[dianalorenaarevalosuarez]

The idea that creative parenting solutions often stem from personal experiences rather than expert advice is intriguing. It underlines the importance of personal narratives in shaping effective parenting strategies.

[camilaanders]

The fear of facing the injustices that parents with disabilities often encounter is palpable. It raises critical questions about societal biases and the urgent need for more understanding and support.

[davidhanson]

Creative problem solving is a valuable quality for any person to have.

[conradthelegendwhite]

The internal conflict you describe, being at odds with your own research and beliefs, is a powerful narrative. It speaks to the complex journey of reconciling theory with personal experience.

[thesugarshackishere]

The emotional journey you described is something many parents can relate to... while problem solving is a huge part of the journey there are lots of other parts to it as well.

[verapatrizio]

I think it's important to acknowledge that not all solutions work for everyone. Each family's dynamics are unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

[heatherleighsunaoka]

I’m a single mother with limited sight and I always put my daughter in squeaky shoes. They were helpful for me and fun for her. Now, at 11 years old, my daughter pays me on the arm regularly and says, “Mama, I’m over here.” Having limited sight has brought us super close and has made her more compassionate to the people around her.

[ezekielaliss]

The small triumphs you shared, like the tower-building moment, are precious. It's those everyday victories that make parenting a beautiful tapestry of memories.

[MarcoPasqua]

"In a weird twist of fate, I had become the subject of my own life's work." - powerful words from Dr. Marjorie Aunos. A moving TED talk that shows us what is possible with the right mindset and determination!

[erikdangor]

My sister is a disabled single mum, thanks for speaking for her... bless you

[pengzhou]

Self-reflection on our internal struggles is important, something we should all do without harsh judgement of ourselves.

[fantastic.shoppingaddict]

This talk left me in awe! Disabled parents redefine the playbook, turning life's curveballs into strikingly beautiful parenting moments.

[braydenteagan]

Your assertion that useful parenting solutions come from parents with disabilities is empowering. It challenges the stereotype and emphasizes the strength and creativity within the disabled parenting community.

[Usyard]

Disabled parents are the ultimate example of human resilience and unconditional love. Kudos to all the Marjories in the world.

[johnathanbrayton]

Wow it's talks like these that make me so grateful for TEDx as a platform.

[coreykansasbell]

Your message about not judging parents too harshly resonates. We could all benefit from looking for the unique solutions each parent brings to the table. Let's celebrate diversity in parenting!

[theoscarnunez]

Marjorie makes a valid point that not even "the experts" can agree on the advice they give to able bodied parents. How daunting for disabled parents.

[charlottewebbnotthebook]

Being a parent is tough, but being a disabled parent takes it to a whole new level. Kudos to those who overcome those odds.

[sagehavenassociates]

One of the best Ted Talks I've seen! Dr. Aunos's unique perspective as a disability researcher and disabled parent is priceless. Her message extends beyond what nondisabled parents can learn; it has enormous implications for the child welfare system! Children are removed from disabled parents at a rate greater than any other minority, not because of abuse or neglect but because of a lack of understanding and support. It's time to be solution-focused and stop overburdening our child welfare system with kids that don't need to be there!

[patrickspringer]

Thank you Marjorie for standing up, while sitting down, for the rights and perspective of parents with a disability!